It is one of the most utilized building materials in the world. It is durable but it can also be cut and shaped to fit where you want it. This material is also now becoming more mold resistant. It can be painted or wallpapered. Yes, you guessed it, it is drywall. Installing drywall is easy, but you're not done until you have taped and filled the joints. With a few basic steps, you can be successful.

Drywall finishing 101

Tools: Flexible broad knives (different sizes -- 4, 6 and 10 inches), sanding block, joint compound tray

Materials: Ready-to-use drywall joint compound, drywall tape or mesh

1. Carefully apply the joint compound over the drywall joint. Do not build a speed bump.

2. Install the mesh tape over the joint compound. Run a 4-inch broad knife over the mesh tape to remove excess compound. Let it dry for 12 hours.

3. Apply the first coat of compound over the mesh tape using the 4-inch knife. Again, let dry for 12 hours. Then, sand lightly if needed.

4. Using the 6-inch knife, apply the second coat of compound that is wider than the first coat. Let dry for 12 hours. Then sand if needed.

5. Using a 10-inch knife, apply the third coat of compound that is still wider. Let it dry thoroughly.

6. After all the coats have dried, sand the compound down completely.